My Rating: 3.92/4 (aka Must see)

One line summary: In Tbilisi, Georgia, we follow Merab as he excels in competitive dance and navigates new relationships.

The Deets: This is a beautiful, electric, passionate, and complicated movie. I imagine it hurtles a sharp critique at conservative Georgian culture, but it also celebrates the bonds of family that are implicit. The story follows Merab, played impressively by Levan Gelbakhiani – he seems to be in every scene and the camera cannot stay away from him. He is a professional dancer as well, and it’s a must in this role. He flows and dances and seduces his way through his life with vulnerability, pride, and a fading innocence. An unexpected gem.

Perfect for: If you love movies about dance (like “Strictly Ballroom”), and if you enjoy coming of age films that are small in theme but capture all of life.

Where to watch: You need to rent it, and I strongly recommend that you do.

Food pairing: Something Georgian, or at least a cucumber, tomato, and dill salad. With a side of bread.